HomeMy WebLinkAbout060 Gurneyplancomm@co.jefferson.wa.us
subject line: ZON18-00036.
6721 Sheridan St., Port Townsend, WA 98368
From: James Gurney, 31 Barbara Lane, Port Townsend, 98368
Since much attention has been paid to the Tarboo Lake Gun Range/Recreation Area
project, I would ask the Planning Commission to turn its attention to the Jefferson
County Sportsman's Association Gun Range and consider that zoning control of a gun
range in a more rural area might be different than zoning control of a range in a
primarily residential area.The JCSA gun range is a gun enthusiasts amusement park
attracting many so-called "members" from Kitsap County, Clallam County and beyond.
What you are allowing without restriction is an entertainment center for people, many
of whom have no stake in the thoughtful development of this part of the county. It
should be noted that the JCSA Range burdens the surrounding community by creating
negative impact on property values/marketability, the environment and community
safety.
I would note that the JCSA range by virtue of its agreement with the county is
subsidized by the county insomuch as no rent nor property taxes are paid on their 43
acre parcel (suggesting they could comply with an appropriate setback) of County
Land. The written agreement between the county and the gun club appears to be
easily re-negotiable/changeable in order to comply with new zoning restrictions.
In regard to the issues mentioned above, please consider applying zoning restrictions
in the following areas:
SETBACK
JCSA should be required to have a significant setback (1000 yds?) from residential,
commercial and facilities such as the animal shelter. I estimate from looking at the
aerial photos provided by the county that there are well over 100 residences,
businesses and developable lots in less than a half mile from the JCSA Range.
HOURS
Please consider some restriction on operating hours. Operating such a facility seven
days a week from dawn till dusk is grossly excessive. During the summer, daylight
hours means 16 hours per day. Though I believe the club does not schedule evening
shooting, there is no rational justification for shooting beyond dusk
commensurate negative safety and environmental issues. [ [ 0 "�j
FACILITIES I,nV 1 6 2018
Shooting should be primarily done indoors.
Please, no military, paramilitary or exploding targets
I hope Commissioners would imagine themselves living a half mile
a facility and ask, could I tolerate it's intrusiveness and negative impact on the
community. Is this the highest and best use of the 43 acre County Owned site and is it
consistent with the County General Development Plan for this area. Thank You.